"Possible failed discharge"

I would like to express serious concerns regarding the recent hospitalisation, transfer, and discharge of my elderly mother, who was admitted to Queen Elizabeth University Hospital following two overnight falls. She was diagnosed with COVID-19, a urinary tract infection, and a chest infection, and her condition was notably fragile.

While I appreciate the care provided at Gartnavel Hospital—where staff were communicative and compassionate—I was surprised to receive a voicemail informing me of her transfer without prior consultation or opportunity to prepare her. I had previously asked about Victoria Hospital due to its proximity to family, and the lack of discussion around this decision was distressing.

Further concerns arose during her discharge. I was told she was not yet fit for hospital-at-home care, yet she was discharged just days later. I was assured I would receive a phone call prior to her departure so I could be present at her home. This did not happen. Fortunately, my daughter informed me of the patient transport schedule, and I arrived just in time—only to find my mother confused, with wet hair, and clearly unsettled.

Since her return home, our family has made every effort to support her, including overnight stays to rebuild her confidence. However, we were surprised to hear from attending carers that her care would be reduced due to family presence. Many of us live outside Glasgow and work shifts, so weekend visits are often the only opportunity we have to support her.

The care package promised—four daily visits with two carers and medication prompts—has not been delivered. Her care has been reduced to three visits on weekdays and two on weekends. Additionally, carers have stated they cannot prompt medication because she has capacity and the medication is not in a dosette box. I am deeply concerned about this, as hospital staff themselves noted her forgetfulness, and I do not believe she currently has the capacity to manage her medication safely.

Most distressing of all, I recently learned that a Do Not Resuscitate (DNR) decision was made without any family involvement. When asked, my mother stated she did not agree to this. This raises serious questions about her capacity at the time and the process by which this decision was made.

I am requesting the following actions be taken and would like to know how to organise them?

• A formal reassessment of my mother’s mental capacity

• A review of the DNR decision and documentation

• Clarification on why the care package was reduced and how it can be reinstated

• Support in ensuring medication is safely managed, including provision of a dosette box

• Assurance that family involvement will be respected in future decisions

I would appreciate a prompt response and appreciate any advice. 

Thank you for your attention.